MOWING TIPS

CAUTION: Do not use de-thatcher blade attachments on your mower. Such attachments are hazardous, will damage your mower and could void your warranty.

•Under certain conditions, such as very tall grass, it may be necessary to raise the height of cut to reduce pushing effort and to keep from overloading the engine and leaving clumps of grass clippings.

It may also be necessary to reduce

ground speed and/or run the lawn mower over the area a second time.

•For extremely heavy cutting, reduce the width of cut by overlapping previously cut path and mow slowly.

•For better grass bagging and most cut- ting conditions, the engine speed should be set in the FAST position.

•Pores in cloth grass catchers can become filled with dirt and dust with use

and catchers wil! collect less grass. To prevent this, regularly hose catcher off with water and let dry before using.

•Keep top of engine around starter clear and clean of grass clippings and chaff. This will help engine air flow and extend engine life.

MULCHING MOWING TIPS

IMPORTANT: For best performance, keep mower housing free of built-up

grass and trash. See "CLEANING" in the Maintenance section of this manual.

. The special mulching blade will recut the grass clippings many times and reduce them in size so that as they fall onto the lawn they will disperse into the grass and not be noticed. Also, the mulched grass will biodegrade quickly to provide nutrients for the lawn. Always mulch with your highest engine (blade) speed as this will provide the best recut- ting action of the blades.

. Avoid cutting your lawn when it is wet. Wet grass tends to form clumps and interferes with the mulching action. The best time to mow your lawn is the early afternoon. At this time the grass has dried, yet the newly cut area will not be exposed to direct sunlight.

. For best results, adjust the lawn mower cutting height so that the lawn mower cuts off only the top one-third of the grass blades. If the lawn is overgrown it will be necessary to raise the height of cut to reduce pushing effort and to keep from overloading the engine and leaving clumps of mulched grass. For extremely heavy grass, reduce your width of cut by overlapping previously cut path and mow slowly.

•Certain types of grass and grass conditions may require that an area be mulched a second time to completely hide the clippings. When doing a sec- ond cut, mow across (perpendicular) to the first cut path.

•Change your cutting pattern from week to week. Mow north to south one week

then change to east to west the next week. This will help prevent matting and graining of the lawn.

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Craftsman 917.374043 owner manual Mulching Mowing Tips
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37404, 917.374043 specifications

The Craftsman 917.374043 and 917.37404 are notable models within the Craftsman lawn tractor line, recognized for their robust performance and user-friendly features. These tractors are designed to provide a reliable solution for homeowners seeking efficient lawn care, offering a blend of power, durability, and ease of use.

One of the standout features of the Craftsman 917.374043 and 917.37404 is their powerful engine. Equipped with a reliable Briggs & Stratton engine, these models deliver impressive torque and cutting ability. The engine's design ensures that the tractor can tackle even the toughest mowing conditions, making it ideal for larger lawns or properties with varied terrain.

These models come with a 42-inch cutting deck, which strikes a balance between maneuverability and mowing efficiency. This size allows for easy navigation around obstacles such as trees and flower beds while still covering a significant area in a single pass. Additionally, the cutting height can be easily adjusted, allowing users to achieve the desired grass length based on the season or specific lawn care requirements.

In terms of technology, the Craftsman 917.374043 and 917.37404 incorporate a hydrostatic transmission system. This feature offers seamless speed adjustments and eliminates the need for manual gear shifts. Users can easily control their speed, enhancing maneuverability around the yard. The foot pedal control allows for smooth acceleration, making it easier to operate the tractor for extended periods.

Comfort considerations also play a key role in the design of these models. The tractors feature an ergonomic seat and steering wheel, ensuring that users can enjoy a comfortable ride during long mowing sessions. Furthermore, the intuitive dashboard layout provides essential information at a glance, including engine status and fuel level, allowing for easy monitoring while mowing.

Durability is another hallmark of the Craftsman 917.374043 and 917.37404. The construction of the deck is heavy-duty, ensuring resistance against wear and tear from grass cutting and environmental elements. The robust frame contributes to the tractor's long-lasting performance, making it a worthwhile investment for lawn care enthusiasts.

In summary, the Craftsman 917.374043 and 917.37404 stand out in the realm of lawn tractors. With their powerful engines, efficient cutting decks, hydrostatic transmission, and user-centric design, these models are well-equipped to meet the demands of modern lawn care. Whether for homeowners with expansive lawns or those managing diverse terrains, these tractors provide the reliability and performance needed for excellent lawn maintenance.
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